A surface cleaning apparatus

ABSTRACT

A surface cleaning apparatus including: a housing supporting: a suction source; a cyclonic separator device for separating dirt from dirt-laden air, wherein the cyclonic separator device has an elongate axis (A) which lies in a plane (Q 1 ); a user graspable handle having an elongate axis (C), a passage member for transporting dirt-laden air to the dirt separation device, the passage member having an elongate axis (B), wherein the elongate axis (B) of the passage member and the elongate axis (C) of the user graspable handle lie in a plane (P 1 ), and the elongate axis (A) of the body intersects the plane (P 1 ), and wherein the cyclonic separator device includes: a first separating chamber fluidly connected to the passage member for separating relatively coarse dust or debris from any dirt-laden air received from the passage member; an inlet through which dirt-laden air is drawn into the first dirt separating chamber; a first dirt collection chamber for receiving dirt separated by the first separating chamber; a shroud; an outlet through which cleaner air exits the first separating chamber; a baffle positioned in the first dirt collection chamber which lies in a plane (R 1 ), and wherein, in side view, the plane (Q 1 ) is perpendicular to the vertical and the baffle is positioned above the plane (Q 1 ) such that, in normal use, dirt collected in the first dirt collection chamber reaches the plane (Q 1 ) before the dirt reaches the baffle.

DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

This invention relates to a surface cleaning apparatus including acyclonic separation device.

In more detail, the invention relates to improving the performance of acyclonic separating device by optimising certain characteristics anddimensions of certain parts of the device, for example, in relation tooptimising the performance of a cyclonic separating device which ishorizontal or otherwise inclined in normal use.

According to an aspect of the present invention we provide a surfacecleaning apparatus including:

-   -   a housing supporting:        -   a suction source;        -   a cyclonic separator device for separating dirt from            dirt-laden air, wherein the cyclonic separator device has an            elongate axis (A) which lies in a plane (Q1);        -   a user graspable handle having an elongate axis (C),    -   a passage member for transporting dirt-laden air to the dirt        separation device, the passage member having an elongate axis        (B),    -   wherein the elongate axis (B) of the passage member and the        elongate axis (C) of the user graspable handle lie in a plane        (P1), and the elongate axis (A) of the cyclonic separator device        intersects the plane (P1), and    -   wherein the cyclonic separator device includes:        -   a first separating chamber fluidly connected to the passage            member for separating relatively coarse dust or debris from            any dirt-laden air received from the passage member;        -   an inlet through which dirt-laden air is drawn into the            first dirt separating chamber;        -   a first dirt collection chamber for receiving dirt separated            by the first separating chamber;        -   a shroud;        -   an outlet through which cleaner air exits the first            separating chamber;        -   a baffle positioned in the first dirt collection chamber            which lies in a plane (R1), and    -   wherein, in side view, the plane (Q1) is perpendicular to the        vertical and the baffle is positioned above the plane (Q1) such        that, in normal use, dirt collected in the first dirt collection        chamber reaches the plane (Q1) before the dirt reaches the        baffle.

According to an aspect of the present invention we provide a surfacecleaning apparatus including:

-   -   a housing supporting:        -   a suction source;        -   a cyclonic separator device for separating dirt from            dirt-laden air, wherein the cyclonic separator device has an            elongate axis (A) which lies in a plane (Q1), wherein, in            normal use, the housing is supported on a floor surface and            the elongate axis (A) of the cyclonic separator device is            parallel with the floor surface, and    -   wherein the cyclonic separator device includes:        -   a first separating chamber for separating relatively coarse            dust or debris from dirt-laden air;        -   an inlet through which dirt-laden air is drawn into the            first dirt separating chamber;        -   a first dirt collection chamber for receiving dirt separated            by the first separating chamber;        -   a shroud;        -   an outlet through which cleaner air exits the first            separating chamber;        -   a baffle positioned in the first dirt collection chamber            which lies in a plane (R1), and    -   wherein, in side view, the plane (Q1) is perpendicular to the        vertical and the baffle is positioned above the plane (Q1) such        that, in normal use, dirt collected in the first dirt collection        chamber reaches the plane (Q1) before the dirt reaches the        baffle.

Optionally in side view, the inlet of the first separating chamber ispositioned below the plane (Q1), and wherein, an angle formed betweenthe plane (Q1) and plane (R1) is between 30 and 60 degrees.

Optionally the angle is between 35 and 55 degrees.

Optionally the angle is between 40 and 45 degrees.

Optionally the angle is 43 degrees or is about 43 degrees.

Optionally in side view, the inlet of the first separator chamber ispositioned above the plane (Q1), and wherein, an angle formed betweenthe plane (Q1) and plane (R1) is between 120 and 150 degrees.

Optionally the angle is between 125 and 145 degrees.

Optionally the angle is between 130 and 135 degrees.

Optionally the angle is 133 degrees or is about 133 degrees.

Optionally the first dirt collection chamber includes a generallycylindrical portion and the baffle is connected to the generallycylindrical portion or is in abutment with the generally cylindricalportion.

Optionally the apparatus includes a cover which defines an inwardlyfacing end wall of the first dirt collection chamber.

Optionally the baffle is provided on the cover.

Optionally the baffle is integrally formed as part of the cover.

Optionally the generally cylindrical portion of the first separatingchamber has a height H_(c), and wherein the baffle extends upwardly fromthe end wall of the first dirt collection chamber lid a height B_(h),wherein the ratio (H_(c):B_(h)) is defined by the range:

-   -   1.4:1≤H_(c):B_(h)≤1.9:1.

Optionally (H_(c):B_(h)) is defined by the range:

-   -   1.6:1≤H_(c):B_(h)≤1.8:1.

Optionally (H_(c):B_(h)) is or is about 1.7.

Optionally the baffle extends from the first generally cylindricalportion in a radial direction towards elongate axis (A).

Optionally the baffle extends a radial distance B_(r) and wherein thefirst dirt collection chamber has a diameter D_(r), wherein the ratio(D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by the range:

-   -   3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤6:1.

Optionally the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by the range:

-   -   3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤5:1.

Optionally (D_(r):B_(r)) is or is about 4.

According to an aspect of the present invention we provide a cyclonicseparator device for separating dirt from dirt-laden air, the cyclonicseparator device including:

-   -   a first separating chamber for separating relatively coarse dust        or debris from dirt-laden air;    -   an inlet through which dirt-laden air is drawn into the first        dirt separating chamber;    -   a first dirt collection chamber for receiving dirt separated by        the first separating chamber;    -   a shroud;    -   an outlet through which cleaner air exits the first separating        chamber;    -   a baffle positioned in the first dirt collection chamber which        lies in a plane (R1),    -   wherein the generally cylindrical portion of the first        separating chamber has a height H_(c), and wherein the baffle        extends upwardly from the end wall of the first dirt collection        chamber lid a height B_(h), wherein the ratio (H_(c):B_(h)) is        defined by the range:    -   1.4:1≤H_(c):B_(h)≤1.9:1.

Optionally (H_(c):B_(h)) is defined by the range:

-   -   1.6:1≤H_(c):B_(h)≤1.8:1.

Optionally (H_(c):B_(h)) is or is about 1.7.

Optionally the baffle extends from the first generally cylindricalportion in a radial direction towards elongate axis (A), the baffleextends a radial distance B_(r) and a diameter of the first dirtcollection chamber is D_(r), and

-   -   wherein the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by the range:    -   3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤6:1.

Optionally the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by the range:

-   -   3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤5:1.

Optionally (D_(r):B_(r)) is or is about 4.

According to an aspect of the present invention we provide a cyclonicseparator device for separating dirt from dirt-laden air, the cyclonicseparator device including:

-   -   a first separating chamber for separating relatively coarse dust        or debris from any dirt-laden air received from the passage        member;    -   an inlet through which dirt-laden air is drawn into the first        dirt separating chamber;    -   a first dirt collection chamber for receiving dirt separated by        the first separating chamber;    -   a shroud;    -   an outlet through which cleaner air exits the first separating        chamber;    -   a baffle positioned in the first dirt collection chamber which        lies in a plane (R1),    -   wherein the baffle extends from the first generally cylindrical        portion in a radial direction towards elongate axis (A) a radial        distance B_(r) and wherein a diameter of the first dirt        collection chamber is D_(r),    -   wherein the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by the range:    -   3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤6:1.

Optionally the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by the range:

-   -   3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤5:1.

Optionally (D_(r):B_(r)) is or is about 4.

Optionally the cyclonic separator device includes:

-   -   a second separating chamber positioned generally within the        shroud for separating relatively fine dirt from the dirt-laden        air cleaned by the first separating chamber,    -   a second dirt collection chamber in communication with the        second separating chamber;    -   an outlet through which cleaner air exits the second separating        chamber;    -   wherein the first separating chamber includes a generally        cylindrical portion with a central axis and wherein the inlet is        configured to direct the incoming dirt-laden air into said        generally cylindrical portion such that it travels        circumferentially around an inner surface of the first        separating chamber,    -   wherein the shroud is positioned generally centrally of the        generally cylindrical portion of the first separating chamber        and the shroud has a generally cylindrical portion having a        height D with openings therein for the passage of air        therethrough towards the second separating chamber,    -   wherein the second separating chamber includes:    -   an inlet through which cleaned dirt-laden air exiting the first        separating chamber is drawn into the second separating chamber;        and    -   a generally frusto-conical portion with a central axis and the        generally frusto-conical portion has an end part in        communication with the second dirt collection chamber through        which fine dirt exits therethrough into the second dirt        collection chamber, and wherein the inlet of the second        separating chamber is configured to direct the incoming said        cleaned dirt-laden air such that it travels circumferentially        around an inner surface of the generally frusto-conical portion.

A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding oraspect/optional aspect including:

-   -   a surface cleaning tool;    -   an elongate member having an elongate axis, said elongate member        connecting the surface cleaning tool to the housing and        including a passage for carrying dirt-laden air from the surface        cleaning tool to the dirt collection chamber.

Optionally the apparatus is a handheld apparatus.

Embodiments of the invention will be set out below by way of exampleonly with reference to the accompanying figures, of which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning apparatus;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the apparatus FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a housing of the apparatus of FIG. 1,which housing is operable as a handheld surface cleaning apparatus;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the housing of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a side view of a component of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view A-A of the component of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view B-B of the component of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention, and

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the housing of FIG. 4.

Referring to the figures, these show a surface cleaning apparatus 10 inaccordance with the present invention. The apparatus 10 includes asurface cleaning tool 12 (a floor head in this example), a housing 16having an elongate axis H and an elongate member 14, having an elongateaxis E, connecting the surface cleaning tool 12 to the housing 16. Theelongate member 14 is relatively rigid. The housing 16, in this example,is operable as a handheld surface cleaning apparatus, commonly known asa hand vac, when the elongate member 14 is not connected thereto, and inthis state the housing 16 can be used with or without the surfacecleaning tool 12 connected thereto. The housing 16 supports a suctionsource 13 and a dirt separation device 15 including a cyclonic separatordevice 18. The cyclonic separator device 18 is generally cylindrical andhas an elongate axis A. The axis A is the axis about which dirt-ladenair is caused to rotate by the cyclonic separator as it passes throughthe apparatus 10. The cyclonic separator device 18 also includes afilter 84 for cleaning the relatively clean air emitted by the cyclonicseparator device 18. In embodiments, the suction source 13 is anelectric motor driving a rotatable fan, but any appropriate suctionsource may be used. All that is necessary is for the suction source tobe able to draw air through the surface cleaning tool 12 and elongatemember 14 towards the cyclonic separator device 18.

In embodiments, the housing 16 supports or contains a battery 23 toprovide electrical power to the suction motor and other components ofthe apparatus 10. The battery 23 is of a generally elongate shape butmay be of a different shape in other embodiments.

In embodiments, the housing 16 includes a passage member 19 in fluidcommunication with the cyclonic separator device 18. The passage member19 is generally elongate. Passage member 19 has an elongate axis B. Afirst end of the passage member 19 defines an inlet 17 for receivingdirt-laden air. The first end is connectable to the elongate member 14or surface cleaning tool 12. When connected, axis B is parallel to theelongate axis E of the elongate member 14. In embodiments, axis B may beco-axial or offset from the elongate axis E.

In embodiments, the cyclonic separator device 18 includes an inletpassage member 28 for fluidly connecting the passage member 19 to thecyclonic separation device 18. In embodiments, there may be no inletpassage member 28 and instead the passage member 19 communicates with aninlet of the cyclonic separator device directly. In other embodiments,the housing 16 has no passage member and the inlet passage member 28 isformed as part of the dirt separation device 15 and connects to a toolor elongate member directly.

The elongate member 14 includes a passage for carrying dirt-laden airfrom the surface cleaning tool 12 to the dirt separation device. In thisexample the surface cleaning tool 12 includes a motor for driving arotatable floor agitating member or brush, so the elongate member 14includes a further passage through which electrical cables may extend toprovide an electric connection between the housing 16 and the motor inthe surface cleaning tool 12.

The surface cleaning tool 12 is disconnectable from the elongate member14, so that, for example, another tool can be connected to the free endof the elongate member 14. The elongate member 14 is also disconnectablefrom the housing 16, by way of a manually operated switch 17 a. Thisenables the housing 16 to be used as a handheld surface cleaningapparatus, with the option of being able to connect another tool to thelocation from where the elongate member 14 is removed.

The housing 16 includes a handle for holding the apparatus 10, saidhandle including first 20 and second 21 user-graspable portions whichare connected to each other substantially at right-angles. The dirtseparation device 15 is positioned forwardly of the handle. A first endof the first user-graspable portion 20 is connected to the housing 16and the portion 20 extends generally upwardly and away therefrom. Theuser-graspable portion 20 has an elongate axis C. A first end of thesecond user-graspable portion 21 is connected to the housing 16 andextends generally rearwardly away therefrom and from the elongate member14. Respective second ends of the first 20 and second 21 user-graspableportions are connected to each other. Essentially, the first 20 andsecond 21 user-graspable portions form a handle which is L-shaped andwhich provides two locations each of which is sized such that it can begrasped fully by a hand of a user. A device 22 a, e.g. a switch, forturning the apparatus “on” is positioned at the connection of the secondends of the first 20 and second 21 user-graspable portions to eachother.

The suction source 13 is in the form of an electric motor 30 with anaxle which is connected at one end to a fan. The motor 30 may be anyappropriate motor, e.g. DC, AC, brushless.

An upstream wall 112 of the housing 16 extends along the elongate axis Hof the housing 16 and has an inner surface which partially defines anair flow passage from an outlet 104 of the dirt separation device to aninlet 103 of the suction source 13. In more detail, an inlet passage 37a to the suction source 13 defines an inlet 103 at an end face thereofand the upstream wall 112 defines an outlet 114 at an end face thereof.The end face of passage 37 a is provided with a seal which abuts the endface of outlet 114 in a sealing manner when the dirt separation device15 is attached to the housing 16.

The cyclonic separator device 18 has a first end including the cover 18a and a second end including the upstream wall 112. A cylindrical wall33 extends between the first and second ends. A portion of the surfaceof the wall 33 is received by a correspondingly shaped recessed surfaceof the housing 16.

The cyclonic separator device 18 has first and second dirt collectionchambers 18 b, 18 e provided at one end 107 a thereof.

The cyclonic separator device 18 has first and second separatingchambers 18 c, 18 d adjacent the first and second dirt collectionchambers 18 b, 18 e. By referring to chambers 18 a, 18 d, 18 b, 18 e, itshould be understood that the chambers include walls provided by variouscomponents and that those walls define respective one or more surfacesand spaces of the chambers.

The cyclonic separator device 18 includes a shroud 100 which also has anelongate axis coaxial with the axis A, the axis A being that about whichdirt-laden air is caused to rotate as it passes through the apparatus 10and circulates around the shroud 100. The shroud 100 is positioned aspart of the cyclonic separator device 18 at an end 107 b thereof whichis opposite to the end 107 a of the cyclonic separator device 18 atwhich the first and second dirt collection chambers 18 b, 18 c areprovided. The shroud 100 has a skirt 101 with a free distal end. Shroud100 has a generally cylindrical portion 102 having openings therein forthe passage of air positioned generally centrally of the cyclonicseparating device 18.

The first separating chamber 18 c is for separating relatively coarsedust or debris from the dirt-laden air. The first separating chamber 18c is in communication with the first dirt collection chamber 18 b sothat separated dust or debris falls into the first dirt collectionchamber 18 b therefrom.

The second separating chamber 18 d is positioned generally within theshroud 100 and is for separating relatively fine dust or debris from thedirt-laden air cleaned by the first separating chamber 18 c. The secondseparating chamber 18 d is in communication with the second dirtcollection chamber 18 e so that separated dust or debris falls into thesecond dirt collection chamber 18 e therefrom.

The cyclonic separator device 18 includes an inlet 99 a through whichdirt-laden air is drawn into the first separating chamber 18 c. Theinlet 99 a is configured to direct the incoming dirt-laden air into agenerally cylindrical portion of the first separating chamber 18 c suchthat it travels circumferentially around an inner surface 19 a of thefirst separating chamber 18 c. Whilst in this embodiment the elongateaxes of the dirt collection chambers 18 c, 18 e and the shroud 100 arecoaxial or substantially coaxial, they need not be. They could, forexample, be parallel and offset from each other or inclined relative toeach other. Alternatively, the shroud 100 could be positioned generallycentrally of the generally cylindrical portion of one or both of theseparating chambers 18 c, 18 e.

The cyclonic separator device 18 includes an inlet 99 b through whichcleaned dirt-laden air exiting the first separating chamber 18 c isdrawn into the second separating chamber 18 d. The second separatingchamber 18 d includes a generally frusto-conical portion 50 with acentral axis. The frusto-conical portion 50 has an end part 52 incommunication with the second dirt collection chamber 18 e through whichfine dust or debris exits therethrough into the second dirt collectionchamber 18 e.

The inlet 99 b of the second separating chamber 18 c is configured todirect the incoming cleaned dirt-laden air such that it travelscircumferentially around an inner surface 54 of the generallyfrusto-conical portion 50. The use of such a frusto-conical portion 50may permit the second separating chamber 18 d to separate finer dust ordebris from the air than that achievable by the first separating chamber18 c.

The second dirt collection chamber 18 e includes a first portion 56positioned near the end part 52 of the generally frusto-conical portion50 and a second portion 58 connected to the first portion 56 whichextends to an end wall of the cyclonic separator device 18 therefrom.The first and second portions 56, 58 are generally cylindrical with thefirst portion 56 having a greater cross-sectional area than the secondportion 58, i.e. as considered without the portion 50 being positionedtherein. In other words, the cross-sectional areas referred to are thosedefined by the respective inner surfaces of the first and secondportions 56, 58 as viewed in side cross-section. In embodiments, therespective areas of the cross-sections may be the same or different. Athird portion 60 which is frusto-conical connects the second portion 58to the first portion 56. The second dirt collection chamber 18 eincludes a baffle 63 positioned generally centrally thereof. A baffle 62is provided at end 107 a of the cyclonic separator device 18. The firstdirt collection chamber 18 b includes a generally cylindrical portionand a portion of the baffle 62 abuts the generally cylindrical portion.The cover 18 a defines an inwardly facing end wall of the first dirtcollection chamber 18 b and the baffle 62 is integrally formed as partof the cover.

The suction source 13 is positioned such that its axle extendstransversely to the elongate axis H of the housing 16. The axis of theaxle and axis A of the cyclonic separator device 18 extendperpendicularly to the elongate axis H of the housing 16. The axes ofthe axle and dirt collection chamber 18 are also parallel to one anotherin this embodiment but they may not be in other embodiments. Theelongate axis B of the passage member 19 and the elongate axis C of thefirst user graspable portion 20 of the handle lie in a plane P1, and theelongate axis A of the cyclonic separator device 18 intersects the planeP1 (as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3). The elongate axis A is substantiallyhorizontal in normal use.

Normal use of the surface cleaning apparatus 10 refers to use thereofwhen the elongate member 14 is inclined at an acute angle with respectto the surface being cleaned. In other embodiments for which the surfacecleaning apparatus 10 is a cylinder cleaner, the housing supporting dirtseparation device 15 may be generally upright with respect to the floorsurface during normal use, and the elongate axis A may be parallel withor inclined with respect to the floor surface. For embodiments where theapparatus 10 is an upright cleaner, the housing may be inclined withrespect to the floor surface and the elongate axis A may be parallel orinclined with the floor surface during normal use.

In more detail, elongate axis A lies in a plane Q1. The baffle 62 isgenerally planar and lies in a plane R1 (see FIG. 8). In side view, theplane Q1 is perpendicular to the vertical and the baffle 62 ispositioned above the plane Q1. The baffle 62 is so positioned thatduring operation such that, in use, dirt collected in the first dirtcollection chamber 18 b reaches the plane Q1 before the dirt reaches thebaffle 62.

The operation of the baffle 62 will now be described. During normal useof the cyclonic separator device 18, dirt will fall into the first dirtcollection chamber 18 b under the combined effects of gravity andcentrifugal forces such that dirt is collected below the plane Q1 beforeit accumulates and rises above the plane Q1. The baffle 62 functions ina manner known in the art to retain the dirt within the first dirtcollection chamber 18 b and to prevent it from re-entering the airflow.Advantageously, by having the baffle 62 positioned above the plane Q1,the surfaces of the baffle 62 are not obstructed by dirt collected inthe first dirt collection chamber 18 b until the amount of dirtcollected is such that it rises above the plane Q1. This means that thebaffle 62 continues to perform its function for longer.

With reference to FIG. 8, in embodiments for which, in side view, theinlet 99 a of the first separating chamber 18 c is positioned below theplane Q1, i.e. the air is rotated in an anti-clockwise direction aroundthe cyclonic separating device, it has been found that pronouncedimprovements in the performance of the baffle occur when an angle Θformed between the plane Q1 and plane R1 lies in the range 30 to 60degrees. Further improvements are found if the angle Θ lies in the range35 to 55 degrees. More improvements are found if Θ lies in the range 40to 45 degrees. It has been discovered that a particularly advantageousvalue of e is 43 degrees or is about 43 degrees.

FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a dirt separation device 15according to embodiments for which, in side view, the inlet 99 a of thefirst separator chamber is positioned above the plane Q1, i.e. the airis rotated in a clockwise direction around the cyclonic separatingdevice. For such embodiments, it has been found that pronouncedimprovements in the performance of the baffle occur when an angle Θformed between the plane Q1 and plane R1 lies in the range 120 to 150degrees. Further improvements are found if the angle Θ lies in the range125 to 145 degrees. More improvements are found if Θ lies in the range130 to 135 degrees. It has been discovered that a particularlyadvantageous value of e is 133 degrees or is about 133 degrees.

The inventors have discovered that, in embodiments, the use of a singlebaffle as described, as opposed to a plurality of baffles, prevents theentrailment of dirt from the first dirt collection chamber into the airduring operation to a satisfactory degree without requiring furtherbaffles.

A height H_(c) of the cylindrical wall 80 of the first separatingchamber 18 c is defined with reference to the free end of the shroudskirt 101 and where an upper portion of the shroud 100 seals against thefirst separating chamber 18 c.

It has been found that advantageous performance may occur forembodiments in which height H_(c) of the generally cylindrical portionof the first separating chamber is 60-70 mm, optionally or preferably62-68 mm, or optionally or preferably the height H_(c) is 65 mm. Furtherimprovements are found if a height B_(h) that the baffle 62 extendsupwardly from the end wall of the first dirt collection chamber 18 b is38-44 mm, optionally or preferably 38-41 mm, or optionally or preferablythe height B_(h) is 39 mm.

The inventors have also discovered advantageous synergies between H_(c)and B_(h). For example, in embodiments, improvements are found when theratio (H_(c):B_(h)) is defined by the range:

-   -   1.4:1≤H_(c):B_(h)≤1.9:1.

Performance improvements are also found when the ratio (H_(c):B_(h)) isdefined by the range:

-   -   1.6:1≤H_(c):B_(h)≤1.8:1.

Performance improvements are also found when the ratio (H_(c):B_(h)) isor is about 1.7.

Additionally, advantageously it has been found that performance may beincreased for embodiments in which a radial distance B_(r) extended bythe baffle 62 in a radial direction towards the elongate axis A is 12-18mm, optionally or preferably 14-16 mm, optionally or preferably B_(r) is15 mm. Further improvements are found if a radius D_(r) of the internalsurface of the first dirt collection chamber 18 is 55-65 mm, optionallyor preferably 59-62 mm, or optionally or preferably the D_(r) is 61 mm.

The inventors have also discovered advantageous synergies between B_(r)and a diameter D_(r). For example, in embodiments, improvements arefound when the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by the range:

-   -   3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤6:1.

Performance improvements are also found when the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) isdefined by the range:

-   -   3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤5:1.

Performance improvements are also found when the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) isor is about 4.

The advantageous dimensions and ratios described provide advantageousperformance for embodiments having a single baffle embodying thedescribed dimensions/ratios or a plurality of baffles embodying thedescribed dimensions/ratios. Furthermore, the associated advantageousperformance may be obtainable for cyclonic separators that are nothorizontal in normal use.

The present invention may be realised for cylinder cleaner embodimentsincluding a housing supporting a suction source, a cyclonic separatordevice having a body with an elongate axis A which lies in a plane Q1and for which, in normal use, the housing is supported on a floorsurface and the elongate axis (A) of the body is parallel with the floorsurface. In such embodiments, a baffle is positioned in the first dirtcollection chamber which lies in a plane (R1), and, in side view, theplane Q1 is perpendicular to the vertical and the baffle is positionedabove the plane Q1.

Embodiments of the present invention need not have first and secondseparating chambers and associated first and second dirt collectionchambers. Such embodiments may only have a first separating chamber andassociated first dirt collection chamber.

When used in this specification and claims, the terms “comprises” and“comprising” and variations thereof mean that the specified features,steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted toexclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the followingclaims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific formsor in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or amethod or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate,may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised forrealising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

1. A surface cleaning apparatus including: a housing supporting: asuction source; a cyclonic separator device for separating dirt fromdirt-laden air, wherein the cyclonic separator device has an elongateaxis (A) which lies in a plane (Q1); a user graspable handle having anelongate axis (C), a passage member for transporting dirt-laden air tothe dirt separation device, the passage member having an elongate axis(B), wherein the elongate axis (B) of the passage member and theelongate axis (C) of the user graspable handle lie in a plane (P1), andthe elongate axis (A) of the cyclonic separator device intersects theplane (P1), and wherein the cyclonic separator device includes: a firstseparating chamber fluidly connected to the passage member forseparating relatively coarse dust or debris from any dirt-laden airreceived from the passage member; an inlet through which dirt-laden airis drawn into the first dirt separating chamber; a first dirt collectionchamber for receiving dirt separated by the first separating chamber; ashroud; an outlet through which cleaner air exits the first separatingchamber; a baffle positioned in the first dirt collection chamber whichlies in a plane (R1), and wherein, in side view, the plane (Q1) isperpendicular to the vertical and the baffle is positioned above theplane (Q1) such that, in normal use, dirt collected in the first dirtcollection chamber reaches the plane (Q1) before the dirt reaches thebaffle.
 2. A surface cleaning apparatus including: a housing supporting:a suction source; a cyclonic separator device for separating dirt fromdirt-laden air, wherein the cyclonic separator device has an elongateaxis (A) which lies in a plane (Q1), wherein, in normal use, the housingis supported on a floor surface and the elongate axis (A) of thecyclonic separator device is parallel with the floor surface, andwherein the cyclonic separator device includes: a first separatingchamber for separating relatively coarse dust or debris from dirt-ladenair; an inlet through which dirt-laden air is drawn into the first dirtseparating chamber; a first dirt collection chamber for receiving dirtseparated by the first separating chamber; a shroud; an outlet throughwhich cleaner air exits the first separating chamber; a bafflepositioned in the first dirt collection chamber which lies in a plane(R1), and wherein, in side view, the plane (Q1) is perpendicular to thevertical and the baffle is positioned above the plane (Q1) such that, innormal use, dirt collected in the first dirt collection chamber reachesthe plane (Q1) before the dirt reaches the baffle.
 3. A surface cleaningapparatus according to claim 1 or 2 wherein, in side view, the inlet ofthe first separating chamber is positioned below the plane (Q1), andwherein, an angle formed between the plane (Q1) and plane (R1) isbetween 30 and 60 degrees.
 4. A surface cleaning apparatus according toclaim 3 wherein the angle is between 35 and 55 degrees.
 5. A surfacecleaning apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the angle is between 40and 45 degrees.
 6. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 5wherein the angle is 43 degrees or is about 43 degrees.
 7. A surfacecleaning apparatus according to claim 1 wherein, in side view, the inletof the first separator chamber is positioned above the plane (Q1), andwherein, an angle formed between the plane (Q1) and plane (R1) isbetween 120 and 150 degrees.
 8. A surface cleaning apparatus accordingto claim 7 wherein the angle is between 125 and 145 degrees.
 9. Asurface cleaning apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the angle isbetween 130 and 135 degrees.
 10. A surface cleaning apparatus accordingto claim 9 wherein the angle is 133 degrees or is about 133 degrees. 11.A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim whereinthe first dirt collection chamber includes a generally cylindricalportion and the baffle is connected to the generally cylindrical portionor is in abutment with the generally cylindrical portion.
 12. A surfacecleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim including a coverwhich defines an inwardly facing end wall of the first dirt collectionchamber.
 13. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 12 whereinthe baffle is provided on the cover.
 14. A surface cleaning apparatusaccording to claim 13 wherein the baffle is integrally formed as part ofthe cover.
 15. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any precedingclaim wherein the generally cylindrical portion of the first separatingchamber has a height H_(c), and wherein the baffle extends upwardly fromthe end wall of the first dirt collection chamber lid a height B_(h),wherein the ratio (H_(c):B_(h)) is defined by the range:1.4:1≤H_(c):B_(h)≤1.9:1.
 16. A surface cleaning apparatus according toclaim 15 wherein (H_(c):B_(h)) is defined by the range:1.6:1≤H_(c):B_(h)≤1.8:1.
 17. A surface cleaning apparatus according toclaim 16 wherein (H_(c):B_(h)) is or is about 1.7.
 18. A surfacecleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the baffleextends from the first generally cylindrical portion in a radialdirection towards elongate axis (A).
 19. A surface cleaning apparatusaccording to claim 18 wherein the baffle extends a radial distance B_(r)and wherein the first dirt collection chamber has a diameter D_(r),wherein the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by the range:3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤6:1.
 20. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim19 wherein the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by the range:3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤5:1.
 21. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim20 wherein (D_(r):B_(r)) is or is about
 4. 22. A cyclonic separatordevice for separating dirt from dirt-laden air, the cyclonic separatordevice including: a first separating chamber for separating relativelycoarse dust or debris from dirt-laden air; an inlet through whichdirt-laden air is drawn into the first dirt separating chamber; a firstdirt collection chamber for receiving dirt separated by the firstseparating chamber; a shroud; an outlet through which cleaner air exitsthe first separating chamber; a baffle positioned in the first dirtcollection chamber which lies in a plane (R1), wherein the generallycylindrical portion of the first separating chamber has a height H_(c),and wherein the baffle extends upwardly from the end wall of the firstdirt collection chamber lid a height B_(h), wherein the ratio(H_(c):B_(h)) is defined by the range: 1.4:1≤H_(c):B_(h)≤1.9:1.
 23. Acyclonic separator device according to claim 22 wherein (H_(c):B_(h)) isdefined by the range: 1.6:1≤H_(c):B_(h)≤1.8:1.
 24. A cyclonic separatordevice according to claim 23 wherein (H_(c):B_(h)) is or is about 1.7.25. A cyclonic separator device according to any one of claims 22 to 24wherein the baffle extends from the first generally cylindrical portionin a radial direction towards elongate axis (A), the baffle extends aradial distance B_(r) and a diameter of the first dirt collectionchamber is D_(r), and wherein the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by therange: 3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤6:1.
 26. A cyclonic separator device according toclaim 25 wherein the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by the range:3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤5:1.
 27. A cyclonic separator device according to claim26 wherein (D_(r):B_(r)) is or is about
 4. 28. A cyclonic separatordevice for separating dirt from dirt-laden air, the cyclonic separatordevice including: a first separating chamber for separating relativelycoarse dust or debris from any dirt-laden air received from the passagemember; an inlet through which dirt-laden air is drawn into the firstdirt separating chamber; a first dirt collection chamber for receivingdirt separated by the first separating chamber; a shroud; an outletthrough which cleaner air exits the first separating chamber; a bafflepositioned in the first dirt collection chamber which lies in a plane(R1), wherein the baffle extends from the first generally cylindricalportion in a radial direction towards elongate axis (A) a radialdistance B_(r) and wherein a diameter of the first dirt collectionchamber is D_(r), wherein the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by therange: 3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤6:1.
 29. A cyclonic separator device according toclaim 28 wherein the ratio (D_(r):B_(r)) is defined by the range:3:1≤D_(r):B_(r)≤5:1.
 30. A cyclonic separator device according to claim29 wherein (D_(r):B_(r)) is or is about
 4. 31. A surface cleaningapparatus or cyclonic separator device according to any preceding claimwherein the cyclonic separator device includes: a second separatingchamber positioned generally within the shroud for separating relativelyfine dirt from the dirt-laden air cleaned by the first separatingchamber, a second dirt collection chamber in communication with thesecond separating chamber; an outlet through which cleaner air exits thesecond separating chamber; wherein the first separating chamber includesa generally cylindrical portion with a central axis and wherein theinlet is configured to direct the incoming dirt-laden air into saidgenerally cylindrical portion such that it travels circumferentiallyaround an inner surface of the first separating chamber, wherein theshroud is positioned generally centrally of the generally cylindricalportion of the first separating chamber and the shroud has a generallycylindrical portion having a height D with openings therein for thepassage of air therethrough towards the second separating chamber,wherein the second separating chamber includes: an inlet through whichcleaned dirt-laden air exiting the first separating chamber is drawninto the second separating chamber; and a generally frusto-conicalportion with a central axis and the generally frusto-conical portion hasan end part in communication with the second dirt collection chamberthrough which fine dirt exits therethrough into the second dirtcollection chamber, and wherein the inlet of the second separatingchamber is configured to direct the incoming said cleaned dirt-laden airsuch that it travels circumferentially around an inner surface of thegenerally frusto-conical portion.
 32. A surface cleaning apparatusaccording to any preceding claim including: a surface cleaning tool; anelongate member having an elongate axis, said elongate member connectingthe surface cleaning tool to the housing and including a passage forcarrying dirt-laden air from the surface cleaning tool to the dirtcollection chamber.
 33. A surface cleaning apparatus according to anypreceding claim wherein the apparatus is a handheld apparatus.
 34. Anynovel feature or novel combination of features described herein and/orin the accompanying drawings.